Earl J. Welch

Earl Joseph Welch, 87, of La Crescent, MN, passed away peacefully on January 31st, 2018. He was born near Waukon, IA on March 7 ^th , 1930 to Thomas and Vernita (Waters) Welch. Earl and Jean (Hutzenbuehler) of La Crosse, WI were married on May 19 ^th , 1951 and raised 10 children in La Crescent, MN.

He is preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Dale Welch, a son, Merle Welch, an infant son and infant great granddaughter. He was also preceded in death by Jean’s two sisters, Jean’s two brothers, two sisters-in-law, three brothers-in-law and many other relatives.

He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Jean, of La Crescent. He is also survived by his children and their spouses; Michele (David) Jopke, Marla (Robert) Burns, Michael (Beth Dickson) Welch, Mark (Sue) Welch, Marti (Karen) Welch, Matthew (Marcia) Welch, Maureen (Louis) Pistulka, Mary Welch and Morry (Jill) Welch. Additionally, he is survived by 21 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren & his siblings and their spouses; Darlene Larson, Clair (Jane) Welch, Richard (Ruth) Welch, Harold (Arlene) Welch and Annette (John) Waldron. He is also survived by Jean’s two sisters and their two spouses, many nieces, nephews and other relatives.

He grew up on a farm where he learned the value of an honest day’s work. Living by that value, he had a successful 41-year career with Mathy Construction Company, where he started as a laborer and finished as a vice president, retiring in 1992. Outside of work, he put his family first and took great pride in his 100% Irish heritage. He was a lifelong member of the Crucifixion Catholic Church of La Crescent and an avid Green Bay Packer fan. He enjoyed hunting, golfing and many other outdoor activities. He also served on various committees in La Crescent and Houston County.

Earl’s family would like to thank the Eagle Crest South staff and hospice staff, who provided excellent care to Earl.

Son, Brother, Husband, Dad, Father-in-law, Grandpa, Great Grandpa, Uncle, Leader, Employee, Friend & Volunteer…You have made us all proud! We love you!